Structural Check

Everytime a house owner purchase a new or old house for his own occupation, most likely he will do some renovation to the house he bought. The extent of renovation depends on individual requirement or budget. Whenever a house owner want to have renovation done to his house, he will most likely look for a interior designer and a renovation contractor. The renovation contractor will construct the skeleton of new extension or make modification to the existing structure of the building as well as the various services such as plumbing installation works, sanitary installation works and the electrical wiring works. The interior designer will then work together with carpenter to finish off the renovation by putting of the finishes and furniture.

Most of the time, after confirming the quotation of the renovation contractor, the owner will allow the contractor to proceed with the construction work without much intervention. The house owner normally get the renovation contractor through recommendation of friends or relatives and they assume the contractor to be competent as far as construction is concerned.

While most renovation contractor are competent to a certain extent in construction works, many small timers acquired their experience from years of involving in the business, many will built according to what they know when they were not provided with a structural plans. While not all renovation involve structural changes, some major renovation may involve extension and changes to the existing structure. In the absence of structural plans, the contractor will built the structure based on his experience and unless the contractor himself is a qualified engineer, his experience in structural soundness of building actually leave much to be desired. There may be cases where the owner may want a certain pillar (known as column in engineering terminology) to be removed and the contractor obliged without advising the owner on the consequences in taking down the column. There may be cases where owner decided to add another floor to the building and the contractor do so without strengthening the column and the foundation. Hence it is advisable that the owner engage a structural engineer to design and supervise the construction so that the end product is structurally sound. Or at least the owner should include the engagement of the structural engineer in the scope of works of the contractor so that the owner can request from the contractor a stamp and certified copy of the structural plans before the commencement of construction and with the structural plans, the owner can liaise with the engineer concerned so that the construction work is actually carried out in accordance with the certified plans.

The engagement of structural consulting engineer is important as the construction of the structure only account for a portion of the total cost of renovation where the other cost that involved include the finishing works and the furniture and fittings that is installed in the property itself. There are many cases where the house owner proceed with the renovation without a structural consultant and when the renovation completed with major works and much money spend in putting all expensive finishing and fittings, suddenly they found their house start to crack here and there and when all things have been completed, it would cost a lot to rectify the construction as a lot of construction works will have to be carried out again in the correct manner and in the process, all expensive finishes will have to taken off and majority will be damaged in the process of them being demolished and of course the labour cost involved, not to mention the wastage of money.

Another case would be upon the completion of construction and if the interior finishes involve the putting up of ceiling below beam level and the wallpaper on the wall where all brick wall and column is covered up. In which case, any cracks that appear may not be visible to the occupant of the house and any visual warning to the impending failure may not be available and dweller may be caught off guard if there is any collapse that happen suddenly.

Therefore it is always wise to engage an engineering consultant if you intend to embark on a major renovation to ensure that whatever extension and modification to building is done in accordance with acceptable code of practice and standard before one even put in all the expensive finishes and fittings.

Sample : Color

---

Difference between 3,4,5-Blade Ceiling Fan

Just to share with you my conclusion working with ceiling fans. These specs are taken off the KDK website for comparison purposes.

Revolution Per Minute (RPM)
3 blade - at high speed 231 to 282 RPM
4 blade - at high speed 170 - 208 RPM
5 blade - at high speed 153 - 190 RPM

Conclusion: the 3 blade fans naturally rotates faster than the ones with more blades. Faster rotation will also produce more air. I doubt the air is cooler made by those with more blades as its subject to the same ambient temperature within that room.

Air Volume Delivery
3 blade - Air Delivery (m3/min) : 236
4 blade - Air Delivery (m3/min) : 209
5 blade - Air Delivery (m3/min) : 204

Conclusion: less blades better volume delivery Wink. Doesnt always mean more blades more air delivery and hence cooler.

Motor Wattage Consumption
3 blade - Motor W at High 66.9 - 81.7
4 blade - Motor W at High 65.3 - 79.8
5 blade - Motor W at High 69.1 - 84.5

Conclusion: rather negliable across different blades really but the lower blades tend to consume less wattage.

Overall conclusion it seems the less blades the better? Only difference I can see is those with 3 blades typically comes with regulator and no frill designs. The 4 or 5 blades are nicer design plus the option of a remote control. Contrary to people's beliefs that more blades, more air volume delivery and thus, cooler. The design of the individual blades are also important to ensure better air volume delivery and quietness. I also note that those with more blades tends to be quieter but not that much.

The legth of blades for the 3 blades ones are typicall 60inch, whilst the 4 and 5 blades one are 56inch. Longer blades I guess means a better reach (bigger coverage area) to dispel the air driven downwards.

Motor is also important factor and should be at least 188 and thats where the RPM comes in. Make sure its at least sealed ball bearing kinds (pretty much the only kind available here in Malaysia).

********
Thanks Batster for the interesting analysis. I guess its also quite logical considering that 3 blades would naturally be lighter than 5 bladed fans, so the lighter it is the faster it rotates, hence producing more air. If thats the case, i can safely say that if my objective for my fan is purely for cooling purpose, 3 blades would be best. 5 blades are more for decorative (and if i'm lazy to stand up to switch it on - i.e. with remote!). I know which one to get know.
*******

True true..more blades more expensive..but ironically as always, we're always inclined to buy the more expensive one due to the form, not so much on the function

********

I was told that a 5-blade fan is quieter than a 3 blade fan. With a 3 blade, you can hear the sound of the blade "cutting" through air, whereas the 5 blade one is more silent.

Sealant : ICI Oil Based Sealent

My advice is to get a good sealent, get the ICI Oil Based Seaeant. Its very smooth and any contractor will tell you its one of the better ones in the market. Do you know what paint is your contractor using. Don't use cheap paints. After a few years of Malaysian weather, it will show.

Malaysia reno : Need approval from DBKL

normally the DBKL application is done by the contractor..I am renovating my house, ask many contractors, cannot do DBKL, so far only one can do, and he will start my reno and application soon, will see if how true is his claim...

Solar Film : Ecotint

my house has a south west orientation...it is hot with the evening sun. what i did was i tinted all my bedroom windows using ecotint. it made a lot of a difference...for example, it takes a lot quicker to cool down my room at night

Property Investment 101 :6 Valuation

There are a few ways to value property

(1) Comparison - Self explanatory. This is using the price transacted for similar properties.

(2) Residual value - The amount a company expects to be able to sell a fixed asset for at the end of its useful life. This is a bit more complicated for a layman like me to explain. Involves certain formulaes and calculations. Perhaps some experts here can help.

(3) Force sale value - This is the value that government valuers will be using in a land acquisition scenario. This is a akin to a fire-sale price which will be much lower than a willing buyer-willing seller as the buyer is willing but the seller is forced.


Hi all,

regarding to the inconsistancy of the value, it probably due to the quality of the comparable property being used and it is also subject to misconduct as well. In both party, either private or government valuer. But what i would like to stress here is, for the government valuer they have most up to date data to arrived with a market value and whereas private valuer they buy the data from government on certain period of time. Due to this, comparable property being used might be different and it result to diffent value.

There are basically 5 method of valuation:
1. Comparison
2. Cost
3. Residual
4. Income
5. Investment

and force sale value is not one of it, to confirm it just ask any property management or real estate 1st year student.

This different methods is being use to serve different purposes of valuation since they have different concept in it as well as the calculation. Comparison for instance, is being used for all type of property and most popular method. Income is use for the property which is generate income mainly from rent while investment method is for property with potential for development based on planning condition.

It is a software in the market we called it SPATIALEST: the integration between MRA + GIS + GEOSTATISTIC. and it will give us consistent value and it is very systematic. However, it is only the enhancement of comparison method and it require large amount data. Suitable for government valuer but not private.

If you wnat to know more about this profession, you may ask any lecturer in public university in malaysia. currently there are 4 universities offered this program at the degree level.

there are: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Universiti Malaya and Kolej Universiti Teknologi Tun Hussein Onn.

Pre-renovation checklist

Here's a basic checklist:

Living room, dining room, bedrooms Inspection

• Examine the walls
Check if there are any cracks, bulges, water stains, peeling paints or wallpaper, missing mortal, rotten siding or flaking bricks on the walls

• Examine the ceiling
Check if there are any peeling paints, sagging plasters or other mechanical damages on the ceiling

• Examine the floor
Check if there are any carpet baldness’s, bulging of linoleum, damages or lack of floor tiles, large stains or demanded areas, deteriorated coverings or cracked ceramics on the floor

• Examine the electrical equipment
Test all light switches, electrical outlets and their fixedness, outlets’ grounding

• Examine the windows
Check if all windows can be opened and closed easily and glasses are safe, ensure that windows are not painted shut and the hardware is working properly

Kitchen Inspection
• Examine the walls
Check if there are any cracks, bulges, water stains, peeling paints or wallpaper, missing mortal, rotten siding or flaking bricks on the walls

• Examine the ceiling
Check if there are any peeling paints or sagging plasters or other mechanical damages on the ceiling

• Examine the floor
Check if there are any swellings, large stains or demanded areas, lack of floor tiles or cracked ceramics on the floor

• Examine the electrical equipment
Test all light switches, electrical outlets and their fixedness, outlets’ grounding

• Examine the windows
Check if all windows can be opened and closed easily and glasses are safe, ensure that windows are not painted shut and the hardware is working properly

• Test all blind and curtains

• Check if all appliances are working

• Examine the exhaust system of ventilation, faucets and sinks
Check if the exhaust fans, faucets, sinks and drains are working. Examine the color of the water, the time that it takes to get hot. Examine if there is no moisture under the sink, check the water pressure

• Ask the seller to replace or fix damaged details

BathroomInspection
• Examine the walls
Check if there are any cracks, bulges, water stains, peeling paints or wallpaper on the walls

• Examine the ceiling
Check if there are any peeling paints, sagging or other mechanical damages on the ceiling

• Examine the floor
Check if there are any bulging of linoleum, damages or lack of floor tiles, large stains or demanded areas on the floor

• Examine the electrical equipment
Test all light switches, electrical outlets and their fixedness, outlets’ grounding

• Examine the windows
Check if all windows can be opened and closed easily, ensure that windows are not painted shut and the hardware is working properly

• Examine the exhaust system of ventilation, faucets and sinks
Check if the exhaust fans, faucets, sinks and drains are working. Examine the color of the water, the time that it takes to get hot, check the water pressure

• Examine the bathtub and shower
Check if the bathtub and shower work properly and there are no damages on the walls around them

• Examine the toilet
Check if there is no dripping from valves behind the toilet after flushing it and after the tank is full

• Check if there is no cracks and delaminations on the mirror

• Ask the seller to replace or fix damaged details

Electrical Inspection
• Check if the electrical connections are solidly attached to the house and re-taped

• Check if there are no wires rubbing against the house, the distance between the ground or driveway and lines

• Check if the exterior lights work

• Check the breakers, terminals and splices

• Ask the seller to fix damaged details

*********
Tip: Always be a pain. It's your house and if you're gonna stay in it, you want a place that you'll be proud of. It's up to the developer if they want to rectify every little defect. Scrutinise every surface, every luck, every tap, look up, down, hidden corners... Oh, be firm but nice when you're with the inspection guy. It doesn't do any good to be nasty with people who could make life easier or difficult for you.

1. Wall surfaces. Make sure they are even, especially at places where they have hacked to install additional points.

2. Paint job on walls, ceiling and doors. Must be even, no drips. Also check where ceilings and walls meet. No overlapping of paint.

3. Tiles - any missing ones? Especially mosaic ones in bathroom.

4. Locks.

5. Windows.

6. Pipes, plumbing.. any leaks?

7. Doors hinges and frames - have they been properly installed? Any gaps?

8. Stray cement - get them to clean it up.

9. The bits between tiles. If they're supposed to be white, make sure they're all white and not grey in certain areas.

10. And lastly, any cracks.
******

Sealant

Yes, it is really of utmost importance that sealant is applied for new plaster ceilings and newly plastered - constructed walls.

The sealant acts as a hardener for the plaster.

Check to confirm that he did not include the sealant in the price first quoted. To be certain, check with another painter. Also, be certain it is the sealant that they are using and not a "bluff".

How to tell the difference? - it has a stronger smell than normal paint. - check to see that they have the sealant paint. - it has to be newly bought.

Property Investment 101 :5

House prices up 30%
Other News & Views
Compiled by NG SI HOOI, A. RAMAN AND IZATUN SHARI

HOUSE prices need to be raised by 30% due to the hike in building materials and petrol prices, Nanyang Siang Pau reported.

Master Builders Association of Malaysia president Patrick Wong said middle-range house prices had been increased from RM150,000 to RM190,000.

“The developers have no choice but to raise the price as the cost of building the houses has increased. The price of houses was adjusted two weeks ago,” he said.

Heavy inflation tends to drive property prices to go north. How i wished i could own 2 more properties by end of year =( But hey, if 3 of my current properties appreciate by 30%, there would be a permanent smile as i stroll my way to the bank =D

Posted by Kian Teck at Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2 comments Links to this post

Property Investment 101 :4

Property valuation is an issue which can be argue in different levels.
For an example : different company will certainly value a property differently which will result to a different value. Thus, it will create a lot of internal and external conflicts between private valuers, government valuers and not to forget the owner of the property.
One of the most common conflict between valuers is when land acquisition comes into picture. The owner ( whose land is effected from the land acquition) will definitely hire a valuer to value his/her land with a higer value while the government valuer will value the land in a much more lower value. And of course this will lead to high court and so on.

My concern is... is there any way we can determined the price or value of a property in a more systematic way which will give a more consistant value between valuers?
Maybe by using AI (artificial intelligent) that is the artificial neural network (ANN) rather than using the traditional method which is the multiple reggession analysis (MRA)?

Please comment. Thank you.

vasquale,
a student who is eager
to learn more about real estate.

All your comment and advice will be a stepping stone for me in my research.[/i]

Property Investment 101 :3

The Malaysian property market offers a good mid range investment opportunity to international investors seeking sensibly priced real estate with sustainable growth potential in residential sector. The constancy of the property market in Malaysia is based upon the steadiness of the country's economy which is currently expanding at a sustainable rate and benefiting from closer export ties with China as well as strong levels of foreign direct investment from the US, China and Japan.

June 08

Property Investment 101 :2

My Take is that the property market have been very stable in Malaysia because most property owner buy out of necessity. So even when the economy is bad house is the essential that will sustain itself. Unlike Singapore, Hong Kong or US where Most ppl buy property to invest or speculate. So when the economy crashes in this country the property price will crash just like the stock market. Although in Malaysia we do not experience such fluctuation in property value but there are more and more ppl who are buying property to invest. So i suspect that this time round we will see some drop in the value of property when recession hit. I am not saying that recession will definitely hit this part of the world but the is a high possibility. Its happening in the states. Property value in singapore is still very strong because it is being fuel by the influx of foreign worker. HK is correcting itself. I think when the recession hit we will see corrective action like lower interest rate by Bank Negara, thats probably a good time to start buying again. As it is, i think its folly to be investing in propety now unless u absolutely have to.

..promo.realestate.yahoo.com/home-prices-continue-sharp-descent.html

June 2008

Fengshui 101 : 3

[b]The Bed[/b]

Besides the bedroom location and sleeping direction, the bed itself is also important. Here are some of the things to take note when you are buying or arranging your bed.

1) Try to get a bed with a headboard. The headboard will provide a support for you.
2) The bed should not be too small for you as this will inhibit growth.
3) Never put two single beds together to form a double bed. The line of separation between the bed is bad for the marriage luck.
4) Always choose a bed with solid bed frame. This lends a firm support for you.

Fengshui 101 : 2

[b]Sleeping Position[/b]
Bedroom fengshui contributes substantially to your own fortune. The position that you are sleeping is very important. The ability to sleep with your head pointing in the direction where your good fortune comes. Based on your Kua numbers, your sleeping direction should align to the luck that you would want to enhance. For example, if you are looking for romance, you should point your head in the direction where your romance luck is most favorable.

While trying to achieve a good sleeping direction, always bear in mind the following:

1) There mus be a solid wall behind the bed. Do not place the bed in the middle of the room.
2) The toilet should not be sharing this solid wall with the bed as the bad chi will flow directly into your head.
3) Do not let your feet point directly at the door as this is a death position.
4) Do not have any mirror reflecting your bed directly. This will symbolize that your spouse will have extra-marital affairs.
4) Do not sleep with a window behind you.

Fengshui 101 : 1

It's the time of year where you can see many doing their spring cleaning. In the realm of fengshui, spring cleaning is recommended. The energy, or qi, of the home should never be allowed to stagnate. Yang energy, qi is constantly moving while yin qi is always still. Hence, for good abundance of fortune, there must be lots of yang qi. So how do we create this yang qi without spending too much money?

The first thing to note is to remove the dirt accumulated beneath cupboards, carpets, beds, wherever you can think of. Dirt, dust, corpses of insects spiders,etc creates very lethargic qi which makes the home "dead".

Another thing to do is to shift your furniture. Make your interior decor look different. This will give a revitalizing and refreshing feel, hence creating vibrant and lively qi.

The slightly more expensive thing to do is to give a new fresh paint to the walls of your house. Colours can easily make your home look different. Of course, you should choose colours that make you happy and refreshing. You can also choose the auspicious colour that best suits your gua number for that year.
With this, hope you have an enjoyable spring cleaning and a Happy Chinese New Year.

Property Investment 101 :1

Hi boomerk, I wish i knew too. But i think that property is always the last to go down and the last to go up. As in, say a recession stocks are the first then at the end of the line will be property. Its kind of the same when things are picking up too i think.

For example just today, someone said that a condo unit that he bought for RM500k in 1997 when the prices were up is still somewhere around the same price today. But what he left out was that the price went down after the recession and is finally back to RM500k today. However, with time, inflation etc it probably still has some way to go before he gets the value of the RM500k he put in.

Quote:

Seems the property market is really lagging, KLSE is fundamentally superb, times are good, people have jobs and are making more and more money.

Actually not everybody has money. I think the richer are getting richer as usual but those of us with salaries are getting the same. Cost of things are going up, people can't afford to service their installments, so many auction properties especially low to medium-cost properties etc, so not necessarily more money in the economy. So many people last year never got a single month bonus also.

But after all this said, the spillover effect should take place and everyone should get a piece of the cake. Then we should see property prices doing better. More people will be able to afford properties thus more volume of transactions and higher value of transactions. What more with the new policies Pak lah has putting is place for the property market. I have a good feeling the boom is just around the corner. What do you think?

Plaster of Paris : MSDS

Chemical data sheet for:

PLASTER OF PARIS

Add to MyChemicals Print Report

Section 1 - Chemical Identifiers	Section 4 - Physical Properties
Section 2 - Hazards	Section 5 - Regulatory Information
Section 3 - Response Recommendations	Section 6 - Alternate Chemical Names

Section 1 - Chemical Identifiers

Back to top | What is this information?

CAS Number - Chemical Abstract Service registry number. Unique identification number assigned to this chemical by the American Chemical Society.

UN/NA Number - The United Nations-North America number (also called UN number or DOT number). Four-digit number identifying an individual chemical or group of chemicals with similar characteristics. Required on shipping papers; often shown on placards or labels. This numbering system was developed by the U.S. Department of Transportation, and then became the UN standard system for classifying hazardous materials.

STCC Number - Standard Transportation Commodity Code. Sounds like "Stick number." Seven-digit chemical identification code used by the Association of American Railroads. A STCC number beginning with "49" indicates a hazardous material.

CHRIS Code - Three-letter code used by the U.S. Coast Guard to identify individual chemicals included in its CHRIS (Chemical Hazards Response Information System) manual.

NFPA 704 - Diamond-shaped label containing codes indicating the level of the chemical's toxic, flammability, and reactivity hazard, along with special hazards such as water- and air-reactivity. See a guide to the "NFPA diamond."

DOT Hazard Label - Required DOT hazard warning label for the chemical (e.g., "Flammable Liquid," "Corrosive"). This label must be displayed on shipped packages, railroad tank cars, and tank trucks according to specifications described in 49 CFR 172.

General Description - Brief description of the general appearance, behavior, and hazardousness of the chemical.

List of data sources.

CAS Number	UN/NA Number	STCC Number	CHRIS Code
26499-65-0	none	none	none

NFPA 704:

NO CODES

DOT Hazard Label:

data unavailable

General Description

White or yellowish, finely divided, odorless powder consisting mostly or entirely of calcium sulfate hemihydrate, CaSO4·1/2H2O. Forms a paste when it is mixed with water that soon hardens into a solid. Used in making casts, molds, and sculpture. Generally non-toxic. (NOAA Reactivity 2007)

Section 2 - Hazards

Back to top | What is this information?

Reactivity Alerts - Special alerts for chemicals that are especially reactive. See a table of reactivity alerts and their definitions.

Air & Water Reactions - Special alerts for chemicals that react with air and/or water or moisture.

Fire Hazard - Description of the chemical's flammability, byproducts that may evolve if the chemical is burned, and risk of explosion.

Health Hazard - Description of the health hazards of the chemical, such as toxicity, flammability, and corrosivity.

Reactivity Profile - Description of the potential reactivity between the chemical and other chemicals, as well as its reactivity with air and water, and any other intrinsic reactive hazards (e.g., polymerizability, peroxidizability).

Reactive Groups - The reactive group, or groups, to which the chemical was assigned, based on its known chemistry. Reactive groups are categories of chemicals that react in similar ways because they are similar in their chemical structure. Read more about reactive groups.

Special WMD note - For chemicals that historically have been used as weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) or that could be used as WMDs, a special note describes the physical clues that can help you to assess whether an attack has taken place.

List of data sources.

Reactivity Alerts

none

Air & Water Reactions

No rapid reaction with air No rapid reaction with water

Fire Hazard

No information available.

Health Hazard

Exposure Routes: inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Symptoms: Irritation eyes, skin, mucous membrane, respiratory system; cough

Target Organs: Eyes, skin, respiratory system (NIOSH, 2003)

Reactivity Profile

PLASTER OF PARIS is non-flammable and non-combustible. Has generally low chemical reactivity but can act as an oxidizing agent under extreme conditions. Decomposes at high temperature to generate toxic oxides of sulfur. Reacts exothermically but slowly with moisture in the air or water to form gypsum CaSO4.2H2O. (NOAA REACTIVITY, 2007)

Belongs to reactive group(s)

• Inorganic Compounds/Neither Reducing nor Oxidizing

Section 3 - Response Recommendations

Back to top | What is this information?

Fire Fighting - Response recommendations for fire incidents in which the chemical is involved.

Non-Fire Response - Response recommendations for incidents not involving fire, in which the chemical is involved.

Protective Clothing - General recommendations.

First Aid - Recommended first aid treatment for people exposed to the chemical.

List of data sources.

Fire Fighting

No information available.

Non-Fire Response

No information available.

Protective Clothing

Skin: No recommendation is made specifying the need for personal protective equipment for the body.

Eyes: No recommendation is made specifying the need for eye protection.

Wash skin: No recommendation is made specifying the need for washing the substance from the skin (either immediately or at the end of the work shift).

Remove: No recommendation is made specifying the need for removing clothing that becomes wet or contaminated.

Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the work shift. (NIOSH, 2003)

First Aid

Eye: If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately. Contact lenses should not be worn when working with this chemical.

Breathing: If a person breathes large amounts of this chemical, move the exposed person to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped, perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Keep the affected person warm and at rest. Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Swallow: If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately. (NIOSH, 2003)

Plaster : MSDS

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
USG White Moulding Plaster
MSDS # 52-100-016
Page 1 of 8
United States Gypsum Company
DISTRIBUTED BY FREEMAN MFG & SUPPLY CO. 800-321-8511
A Subsidiary of USG Corporation
Product Safety: 1 (800) 507-8899
Version Date: October 8, 2003
Version: 4
SECTION 1
CHEMICAL PRODUCT AND IDENTIFICATION
PRODUCT(S): USG White Moulding Plaster
CHEMICAL FAMILY: Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate (CaSO4•½H2O)
SECTION 2
COMPOSITION, INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS
MATERIAL WT% TLV (mg/m3) PEL( mg/m3) CAS NUMBER
Plaster of Paris (CaSO4•½H2O) 100 10 15(T)/5(R) 26499-65-0
Crystalline Silica <1 0.05(R) 0.1(R) 14808-60-7
(T) – Total (R) – Respirable (NE) – Not Established
Respirable crystalline silica: IARC: Group 1 carcinogen, NTP: Known human carcinogen. The weight percent of
crystalline silica given represents total quartz and not the respirable fraction. Testing of dust from USG plaster of paris
has not detected respirable crystalline silica.
Food and Drug Administration [CFR Title 21, v.3, sec 184.1230] – Calcium Sulfate is Generally
Recognized as Safe (GRAS).
All ingredients of this product are included in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Toxic Substances Control
Act Chemical Substance Inventory. All components of this product are included in the Canadian Domestic
Substances List (DSL)
SECTION 3
HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
INFORMATION FOR HANDLING AND IDENTIFICATION OF CHEMICAL HAZARDS
0 = Minimal Hazard
NFPA Ratings: HIMS Ratings: 1 = Slight Hazard
Health: 0 Health: *0 2 = Moderate Hazard
Fire: 0 Fire: 0 3 = Serious Hazard
Reactivity: 0 Reactivity: 1 4 = Severe Hazard
Personal Protection: Use eye and skin protection. Use NIOSH/MSHA-approved respiratory protection when
necessary.
*Respirable crystalline silica can cause lung disease and/or cancer. E – Safety glasses, gloves and dust respirator
EMERGENCY OVERVIEW
This product is not expected to produce any unusual hazards during normal use. Exposure to high dust levels may
irritate the skin, eyes, nose, throat, or upper respiratory tract. When mixed with water, this material hardens and
becomes very hot – sometimes quickly. DO NOT attempt to make a cost enclosing any part of the body using this
material.
HEALTH
FLAMMABILITY
PHYSICAL HAZARD
PERSONAL PROTECTION E
* 0
0
1
0
0 0
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
USG White Moulding Plaster
MSDS # 52-100-016
Page 2 of 8
SECTION 3 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION (continued)
POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS
ACUTE:
Eyes: Direct contact can cause mechanical irritation of eyes. If burning, redness, itching, pain or other symptoms
persist or develop, consult physician.
Skin: When mixed with water, this material hardens and becomes very hot – sometimes quickly. DO NOT attempt to
make a cost enclosing any part of the body using this material. Failure to follow these instructions can cause severe
burns that may require surgical removal of affected tissue or amputation of limb. Direct, prolonged or repeated contact
with the skin may cause irritation. Rinse with water until skin is free of material to avoid irritation, then wash skin
thoroughly with mild soap and water. Repeated exposure may dry skin.
Inhalation: Dust exposures generated during the handling of the product may irritate eyes, skin, nose, throat, and
upper respiratory tract. Persons subjected to large amounts of this dust will be forced to leave area because of
nuisance conditions such as coughing, sneezing and nasal irritation. Labored breathing may occur after excessive
inhalation. If respiratory symptoms persist, consult physician.
Ingestion: Unlikely to occur, but if ingested may cause gastric disturbances if swallowed. Plaster of paris is non-toxic,
however, ingestion of a sufficient quantity could lead to mechanical obstruction of the gut, especially the pyloric region.
See First Aid Measures - Ingestion (Section 4).
CHRONIC:
Inhalation: Testing of dust from USG plaster of paris has not detected respirable crystalline silica. Exposures to
respirable crystalline silica are not expected during the normal use of this product; however, actual levels must be
determined by workplace hygiene testing. The weight percent of respirable crystalline silica has not been measured in
this product.
Prolonged and repeated exposure to airborne free respirable crystalline silica can result in lung disease (i.e., silicosis)
and/or lung cancer. The development of silicosis may increase the risks of additional health effects. The risk of
developing silicosis is dependent upon the exposure intensity and duration.
Skin: Repeated contact may dry the skin, causing cracking or dermatitis. Sensitive individuals may develop an allergic
dermatitis.
Eyes: No known effects.
Ingestion: No known effects.
TARGET ORGANS: Eyes, skin and respiratory system.
PRIMARY ROUTES OF ENTRY: Inhalation, eyes and skin contact.
SECTION 4
FIRST AID MEASURES
FIRST AID PROCEDURES:
Eyes: Flush thoroughly with water for 15 minutes. If irritation persists, consult physician.
Skin: Wash with mild soap and water. A commercially available hand lotion may be used to treat dry skin areas. If
skin has become cracked, take appropriate action to prevent infection and promote healing. If irritation persists,
consult physician.
Inhalation: Remove to fresh air. Leave the area of dust exposure and remain away until coughing and other
symptoms subside. Other measures are usually not necessary, however if conditions warrant, contact physician.
Ingestion: This product is not intended to be ingested or eaten. If gastric disturbance occurs, call physician. This
product contains gypsum plaster. Plaster of paris hardens and, if ingested, may result in obstruction of the gut,
especially the pyloric region. Drinking gelatin solutions or large volumes of water may delay setting.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS WHICH MAY BE AGGRAVATED: Pre-existing upper respiratory and lung diseases such
as, but not limited to, bronchitis, emphysema and asthma. Pre-existing skin diseases such as, but not limited to,
rashes and dermatitis.
Notes to Physician: Treatment should be directed at the control of symptoms and the clinical condition.
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
USG White Moulding Plaster
MSDS # 52-100-016
Page 3 of 8
SECTION 5
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
General Fire Hazards: Not expected to burn.
Extinguishing Media: Water or use extinguishing media appropriate for surrounding fire.
Special Fire Fighting Procedures: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (See section 8).
Unusual Fire and Explosion
Hazards:
None
Hazardous Combustion Products: Above 1450º C - decomposes to calcium oxide (CaO) and sulfur dioxide (SO2).
Flash Point: None Known Auto Ignition: Not Applicable
Method Used: Not Applicable
Upper Flammable Limit (UFL): Not Applicable
Flammability Classification: Not Applicable, may act as
a fire retardant
Lower Flammable Limit (LFL): Not Applicable Rate of Burning: Not Applicable
SECTION 6
ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
CONTAINMENT:
No special precautions. Wear appropriate personal protection (See Section 8).
CLEAN-UP:
Use normal clean up procedures. If dry, shovel or sweep up material from spillage and place collected material into a
container for recovery or waste disposal. Avoid dust generation. Avoid inhalation of dust and contact with eyes and
skin. Wear appropriate protective equipment. Maintain proper ventilation. If vacuum is used to collect dust, use an
industrial vacuum cleaner with a high efficiency air filter. If sweeping is necessary, use dust suppressant. Do not use
compressed air for clean up. These procedures will help minimize potential exposures. If washed down, may plug
drains. If already mixed with water, scrape up and place in container.
DISPOSAL:
Follow all local, state, provincial and federal regulations. Never discharge large releases directly into sewers or
surface waters. Slurry may plug drains. Trace amounts of residue can be flushed to a drain, using plenty of water.
SECTION 7
HANDLING AND STORAGE
HANDLING:
Avoid dust contact with eyes. Wear the appropriate eye protection against dust (See Section 8).
Avoid breathing dust. Wear the appropriate respiratory protection against dust in poorly ventilated areas and if TLV is
exceeded (see Sections 2 and 8).
Minimize dust generation and accumulation. Use good safety and industrial hygiene practices.
STORAGE:
Store in a cool, dry, ventilated area away from sources of heat, moisture and incompatibilities (see Section 10).
Dew point conditions or other conditions causing presence of liquid will harden this material during storage.
Protect product bags or containers from physical damage and weather.
Keep bags or other containers tightly closed to prevent moisture contact.
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
USG White Moulding Plaster
MSDS # 52-100-016
Page 4 of 8
SECTION 8
EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION
ENGINEERING CONTROLS:
Provide ventilation sufficient to control airborne dust levels especially respirable crystalline silica.
If user operations generate airborne dust, use ventilation to keep dust concentrations below permissible exposure
limits (See Section 2).
Where general ventilation is inadequate, use process enclosures, local exhaust ventilation, or other engineering
controls to control dust levels below permissible exposure limits (see Section 2). If engineering controls are not
possible, wear a properly fitted NIOSH/MSHA-approved particulate respirator.
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION:
Wear a NIOSH/MSHA-approved respirator equipped with particulate cartridges when dusty in poorly ventilated areas,
and if TLV is exceeded. A respiratory program that meets OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.134 and ANSI Z88.2 requirements
must be followed whenever workplace conditions warrant a respirator's use.
OTHER PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT:
Eye/Face: Wear eye protection (safety glasses or goggles) to avoid possible eye irritation.
Skin: Wear gloves and protective clothing to prevent repeated or prolonged skin contact. Barrier creams or skin lotion
may be applied to face, neck, wrist and hands when skin is exposed to help prevent drying of skin.
General: Selection of Personal Protective Equipment will depend on environmental working conditions and
operations.
SECTION 9
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Appearance White to off white Viscosity Not Applicable
Physical State Solid (powder) Solubility (H2O) 0.67-0.88 g/100 g solution
Odor Low to no odor Boiling Point Not Applicable
pH @ 25 º C ~7 Melting Point Not Applicable
Particle Size Varies Softening Point Not Applicable
Molecular Weight ~145 g/mole Freezing Point Not Applicable
Bulk Density ~ 55-70 lb/ft3 Vapor Density (Air = 1) Not Applicable
Specific Gravity (H20 = 1) 2.5 Vapor Pressure (mm Hg) Not Applicable
Percent Volatile Zero Evaporation Rate (BuAc = 1) Not Applicable
VOC Content Zero
SECTION 10
CHEMICAL STABILITY AND REACTIVITY
STABILITY: Stable in dry environments. Dew point conditions or other conditions causing
presence of liquid will harden this material.
CONDITIONS TO AVOID: Contact with acids, water, high humidity, and incompatibles.
INCOMPATIBILITY: Acids. Exposure to water and acids must be supervised because the reactions
are vigorous and produce large amounts of heat.
HAZARDOUS POLYMERIZATION: Will not occur.
HAZARDOUS DECOMPOSITION: Above 1450º C - calcium oxide (CaO) and sulfur dioxide SO2

Health Hazards : Plaster

 TRADITIONAL SCULPTURE HAZARDS

By Michael McCann, Ph.D., C.I.H., and Angela Babin, M.S.





INTRODUCTION



  Many artists work with traditional sculptural materials

including plaster, stone, lapidary, clay, wax, and modeling

materials.  This data sheet will provide hazards and safety

information for certain traditional processes.  Our data

sheets "Ceramics", "Metal Working and Jewelry Hazards",

"Plastics" and "Woodworking." have information about

other sculptural materials.





PLASTER



  Plaster can be carved, modeled, and casted.  Varieties of

plaster include: Plaster of Paris, casting plaster, white art

plaster, molding plaster, and Hydrocal.  These are all

varieties of calcined gypsum, composed of calcium sulfate.

  Plaster is mixed by sifting the powder into water.

Sometimes salt, potassium sulfate, or potassium alum is

added to speed setting, or borax, diluted acetic acid, or

burnt lime is added to retard setting of the plaster.  Silica

sand, vermiculite, sand, and coarse stone can be added to

the plaster for textural effects.  Wet or dry plaster is

carved and modeled with special plaster carving chisels,

knives, rasps, and scrapers and other tools.



Hazards

1. Plaster dust (calcium sulfate) is slightly irritating to the

eyes and respiratory system.  In situations where there is

heavy inhalation of the dust, more severe respiratory

problems can result.

2. Potassium sulfate and potassium alum are slightly toxic

by ingestion; potassium alum is slightly toxic by skin

contact, and can cause mild irritation or allergies in some

people.

3. Borax is moderately toxic by ingestion, by inhalation,

and by absorption through burns or other skin injuries.  It

is also slightly toxic by skin contact, causing alkali burns.

4. Concentrated acetic acid is highly corrosive by

ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact.

5. Burnt lime (calcium oxide) is moderately corrosive by

skin contact (especially if the skin is wet), and highly toxic

by inhalation or ingestion.

6. Many of the additives used may be hazardous.  Silica

and vermiculite dust are highly toxic by inhalation, and

may cause silicosis.  Small amounts are not a major

hazard.

7. Careless use and storage of sharp tools can cause

accidents.  Chipping set plaster can result in eye injuries

from flying chips.



Precautions

1. For mixing large amounts of plaster at one time, wear

a NIOSH-approved dust mask.  Vacuum or mop up plaster

dust carefully; do not sweep.

2. Wear gloves and goggles when mixing acetic acid and

burnt lime.  For large amounts of burnt lime, wear an

approved toxic dust mask.

3. When adding hazardous materials to plaster, wear an

approved toxic dust mask and clean up dust carefully by

wet mopping or vacuuming.

4. Always carve or cut in a direction away from you, and

keep hands behind the tool.  If the tool falls, don't try to

catch it.

5. Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles when chipping

plaster.

6. Store plaster in sealed containers or plastic sealed bags

rather than paper bags which can rip open.





PLASTER MOLDS

  Mold releases used with plaster include vaseline, tincture

of green soap, auto paste wax-benzine, silicone-grease-

benzine, and mineral oil-petroleum jelly.  In waste

molding, the plaster mold is chipped away.



Hazards

1. Benzine used with many mold releases is moderately

toxic by skin contact and inhalation, and is highly toxic by

ingestion.  It is also flammable.

2. Making plaster casts of hands, legs, and other body

parts can be very hazardous due to the heat released during

the setting process.  Many children and adults have been

severely burned doing this.



Precautions

1. Wear gloves and goggles when pouring benzine.  Store

in safety containers and do not use near open flames or

cigarettes.

2. Do not use plaster for body part casts.  Instead, use a

plaster-impregnated bandage (such as Johnson and

Johnson's Pariscraft), along with vaseline or similar mold

release as protection.





PLASTER FINISHING

    Plaster can be finished in many ways.  It can be

painted with paint or powdered pigments, or dyes can be

added directly to the plaster mix.  Patinas are made by

sealing the plaster with shellac or acrylic sprays.  They can

also be made with a 50/50 mixture of water and white

glue, with water-based glue mixed with a 50/50 mixture of

lacquer and alcohol, or with bronzing liquids.





Hazards

1. Powdered pigments and dyes are often hazardous by

inhalation or ingestion, and in some cases by skin contact.

See our data sheet "Art Painting and Drawing" and

"Dyeing Safely" for more information on the pigments used

to finish plaster.

2. Lacquers contain solvents that are highly toxic by

inhalation and moderately toxic by skin contact.  Alcohol

and shellac are slightly toxic unless the shellac contains

moderately toxic methyl alcohol.  These solvents are also

flammable.



Precautions

1. Wear a NIOSH-approved dust mask when using

powdered pigments or dyes.  Brush or dip dyes or paints

rather than spraying.

2. When using solvents, have good general ventilation and

wear gloves and goggles.  Store solvents safely, and keep

them away from open flames and lit cigarettes; dispose of

solvent-soaked rags in approved waste disposal cans which

are emptied each day.





STONES AND LAPIDARY



  Stone carving involves chipping, scraping, fracturing,

flaking, crushing, and pulverizing with a wide variety of

tools.  Soft stones can be worked with manual tools

whereas hard stones require crushing and pulverizing with

electric and pneumatic tools.  Crushed stone can also be

used in casting procedures.





SOFT STONES

  Soft stones include soapstone (steatite), serpentine,

sandstone, African wonderstone, greenstone, sandstone,

limestone, alabaster, and several others.





HARD STONES

  Hard stones include granite and marble.  Electric tools

include saws, drills, grinders, and sanders, and pneumatic

tools include rotohammers, drills, and other tools powered

by compressed air.





CASTING STONES

  Stone casts can be made using Portland cement, sand,

and crushed stone.  Marble dust is often used with this

technique.  Cast concrete sculptures can also be made

using sand and Portland cement.   The commonest mold is

plaster with stearic acid/benzine as the mold release.

Portland cement contains calcium, aluminum, iron and

magnesium oxides, and about 5% free silica.  Some

modern cements have acrylic resins in them to give

stronger bonding.  Sometimes, fiberglass is added as a

reinforcement.



Hazards

1. Sandstone, soapstone, and granite are highly toxic by

inhalation because they contain large amounts of free silica.

Limestone, containing small amounts of free silica, is less

hazardous.  See Table 1.

2. Serpentine, soapstone, and greenstone may contain

asbestos, which can cause asbestosis, lung cancer,

mesothelioma, and stomach and intestinal cancers.

3. During chipping and other carving, flying chips and

pieces of rock may cause eye injury.  Grinding and

sanding can release small pieces of stone and dust which

are hazardous to the eyes.

4. Lifting heavy pieces of stone may cause back injuries.

5. Power tools create larger amounts of fine dust than hand

tools.  Pneumatic tools can create large amounts of fine

silica dust.

6. Pneumatic and electric tools and compressors can create

a noise hazard.  Temporary hearing loss can become

permanent with chronic exposure and noise can also

adversely affect the heart, circulation, blood pressure,

intestines, and balance.

7. Vibration from pneumatic equipment can cause

Raynaud's phenomenon, ("white fingers" or "dead fingers")

a circulation disease.  The hazard is greater with exposure

to cold, (e.g. the air blast from pneumatic tools).  This

temporary condition can spread to the whole hand and

cause permanent damage.

8. Electrical tools create the potential hazard of electrical

shock from improperly grounded or faulty wiring.

9. Calcium oxide in Portland cement is highly corrosive to

the eyes and respiratory tract, and is moderately corrosive

to the skin.  Allergic dermatitis can also occur due to

chromium contaminants in the cement.  The silica in the

cement is also highly toxic by inhalation.  Lung problems

from inhalation of Portland cement include emphysema,

bronchitis, and fibrosis.

10. Acrylic resins are skin irritants and sensitizers.  See

our data sheet on plastics for more information.



Precautions

1. Do not use stones which may contain asbestos unless

you are certain that your particular pieces are asbestos

free.  New York soapstones may contain asbestos, whereas

Vermont soapstones are usually asbestos free.  Alabaster is

a substitute.

2. Wear an NIOSH-approved toxic dust respirator when

carving all stones.  Particular care should be taken with

stones that contain free silica.

3.  Techniques to keep down dust levels in the air include

daily vacuuming or wet mopping, and use of a water spray

over your sculpture when you are carving.  Do not dry

sweep.

4. Wear chipping goggles to protect against flying

particles; wear protective shoes to protect against falling

stones.  Wear approved safety goggles when grinding,

sanding, or polishing.  For heavy grinding also wear a

face shield.

5. Change clothes and shower after work so as not to track

the dust home. Wash your clothes regularly.

6. When using carving tools, keep your hands behind the

tools, and carve or cut in a direction away from you.

Don't try to catch falling tools.

7. Use proper lifting techniques (bent knees).

8. Pneumatic and electric carving tools should be equipped

with portable exhaust systems.

9. All electric tools should be properly grounded and in

good repair.  Install ground fault circuit interrupters if

machines are within 6 feet of water that can splash.

10. Isolate the compressor far away and shield with sound-

absorbing materials.  Wear ear protection if necessary.

11. Protect against vibration damage from pneumatic tools

by measures such as having comfortable hand grips,

directing the air blast away from your hands, keeping

hands warm, taking frequent work breaks, and using

preventive medical measures such as massage and

exercises.

12. Tie long hair back, and don't wear ties, jewelry, or

loose clothing which can get caught by machinery.

13. Equip all grinding wheels, sanding machines, and

polishing wheels with local exhaust ventilation, and use wet

sanding and polishing techniques whenever possible to keep

down dust levels.





LAPIDARY

  Lapidary involves cutting and carving semiprecious stones

and has similar risks as hard stone carving.  Stones carved

include garnet, jasper, jade, agate, travertine, opal,

turquoise and many others.



Hazards

1. See stone hazards above.

2. The dust from quartz gemstones such as agate,

amethyst, onyx, and jasper is highly toxic because they are

made of silica.  Other gemstones such as turquoise and

garnet may be contaminated with substantial amounts of

free silica.  Opal is made of amorphous silica, which is

slightly toxic by inhalation.

3. Gem cutting machines can create very high noise levels.



Precautions

1. See stone precautions above.

2. In the absence of adequate local exhaust ventilation,

wear NIOSH-approved toxic dust respirator for sanding,

grinding, or polishing operations that create dust.  Use wet

grinding processes.



FINISHING STONE

  Stones can be finished by grinding, sanding, and

polishing, by either hand or with machines.  Polishing can

use a variety of materials, depending on the hardness of

the stone being polished.  Polishing materials include

carborundum (silicon carbide), corundum (alumina),

diamond dust, pumice, putty powder (tin oxide), rouge

(iron oxide), tripoli (silica), and cerium oxide.



Hazards

1. Grinding and sanding, especially with machines can

create fine dust from the stone which is being worked.

There are also inhalation hazards from grinding wheel dust

(especially sandstone wheels).  Some polishing materials

such as tripoli are highly toxic if inhaled in powder form.



Precautions

1. In the absence of adequate local exhaust ventilation,

wear NIOSH-approved toxic dust respirator for sanding,

grinding, or polishing operations that create dust.





Table 1.



NOT SIGNIFICANT OR SLIGHT HAZARDS,

VERY SMALL AMOUNTS FREE SILICA

alabaster, amber, bone ash, calcite, carborundum, diamond,

dolomite, gypsum, hematite, jade, marble, putty (tin),

travertine, whiting, wollastonite.



MAY CONTAIN LARGE AMOUNTS FREE SILICA

clays, feldspars, garnet, granite, greenstone, quartz (agate,

amethyst, chalcedony, chert, flint, lapis lazuli, lepidolite,

onyx, silica flour) opal, pumice, rouge (if silica-containing,

iron), sandstone, slate, silica-containing African

wonderstone, talc, tripoli, turquoise.



CONTAINING OTHER MODERATE TO EXTREMELY TOXIC INGREDIENTS

asbestos, carbon black (if contaminated with polycyclic

aromatic hydrocarbons), cerium oxide, cerrusite (lead),

coal, corundum (aluminum oxide), cryolite, erionite

(zeolite), fluorspar, lapis lazuli (ingestion may create

hydrogen sulfide), litharge (lead), malachite (copper),

serpentine (may contain asbestos), soapstone (talc), talc

(can have asbestos-type materials), vermiculite (asbestos),

witherite (barium), zirconia (allergen).











MODELING MATERIALS



CLAY

   Modeling materials used in sculpture include traditional

moist clays, non-hardening modeling clays, self-hardening

clays, oven-hardening clays, wax, and papier mache type

products.  See our data sheet "Ceramics" for more

information on clay.





MODELING COMPOUNDS

    Modeling clays of the plasticine type usually contain

China clay in an oil and petrolatum base.  Additives are

often present, including dyes, sulfur dioxide, vegetable oils,

aluminum silicate, preservatives, and turpentine.  These are

modeled and carved with simple tools.

  There are also a variety of polymer clays that are self-

hardening, or oven-hardening (e.g. FIMO, Sculpey), which

are not really clays at all.  These are often based on

polyvinyl chloride.  They are widely used in jewelry and

bead-making, and sometimes are inappropriately used with

children.



Hazards

1. Some of the additives in plasticine clays such as

turpentine and preservatives might cause skin irritation or

allergies, and sulfur dioxide might cause some respiratory

problems in certain asthmatics.  The amounts present are

usually small.

2. In the past, many of these materials contained di-

(ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a probable human

carcinogen, as a plasticizer.

3. The curing temperatures of different product are not the

same, and in some cases, very close to the temperatures at

which decomposition can occur.



Precautions

1. Use gloves or apply a barrier cream to hands if skin

irritation results from using plasticine modeling clays.

Wash hands with soap and water after contact.

2. Baking any art material in an oven which is also used

for food carries the risk of contaminating food.  Use a

separate oven, that has reliable temperature control and

only bake these products to their particular hardening

temperature.

3. Obtain the get the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)

from the manufacturer or supplier, and make sure the

temperature of decomposition is not reached.

4. Do not use hardening modeling clays that have DEHP

as a plasticizer.  At this time, the longterm hazards of

replacement plasticizers have not been adequately

researched.

5. Use these products in front of a window exhaust fan.





WAX



  Many different types of waxes are used for modeling,

carving, and casting.  These include beeswax, ceresin,

carnauba, tallow, paraffin, and micro-crystalline wax.  In

addition there are the synthetic chlorinated waxes.  Solvents

used to dissolve various waxes include alcohol, acetone,

benzine, turpentine, ether, and carbon tetrachloride.

  Waxes are often softened for carving or modeling by

heating in a double boiler or with a light bulb, by

sculpting with tools warmed over an alcohol lamp, or by

the use of soldering irons, alcohol lamps, and blowpipes.

Wax can be melted for casting in a double boiler.

  Additives used with waxes include rosin, dyes, petroleum

jelly, mineral oil, and many solvents.



Hazards

1. Overheating wax can result in the release of flammable

wax vapors, as well as in the decomposition of the wax to

release acrolein fumes and other decomposition products

which are highly irritating by inhalation.  Explosions have

occurred from heating wax that contained water.

2. Alcohol and acetone are slightly toxic solvents by skin

contact and inhalation; benzine and turpentine are

moderately toxic by skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion.

Carbon tetrachloride is extremely toxic, possibly causing

liver cancer and severe liver damage, even from small

exposures.  Exposure to carbon tetrachloride can be fatal

by skin absorption or inhalation.

3. Chlorinated synthetic waxes are highly toxic by skin

contact and skin absorption, causing a severe form of acne

(chloracne).  Some may be contaminated with

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which are highly toxic,

causing chloracne, liver problems, and possibly cancer of

the pancreas and melanoma (a fatal form of skin cancer).



Precautions

1. Do not overheat waxes.  Use a double boiler and a

temperature-controlled hot plate, or a crock pot.  Do not

use an open flame to melt waxes.

2. Use the least hazardous solvent to dissolve your wax.

Do not use carbon tetrachloride under any circumstances.

Store solvents safely, do not smoke or have open flames

near solvents.  Dispose of solvent-soaked rags in an

approved waste disposal container which is emptied daily.

3. Do not use chlorinated synthetic waxes.



This data sheet is adapted from the second edition of Artist

Beware, by Michael McCann, Ph.D., C.I.H., 1992











FOR FURTHER INFORMATION





   Written and telephoned inquiries about hazards in the arts

will be answered by the Art Hazards Information Center of

the Center for Safety in the Arts.  Send a stamped, self-

addressed envelope for a list of our many publications.

Permission to reprint this data sheet may be requested in

writing from CSA.  Write: Center for Safety in the Arts,

5 Beekman Street, Suite 820, New York, NY 10038.

Telephone (212) 227-6220.

   CSA is partially supported with public funds from the

National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State

Council on the Arts, the New York City Department of

Cultural Affairs, and the NYS Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Training and Education

Program.



(c) Center for Safety in the Arts, 1994.









--

Michael McCann

Internet: mmccann@rdz.stjohns.edu

Kitchen Countertop : All Material Info

Kitchen Countertops, Counter Top Solid Surface, Quartz Surface, Resin & Glass Options--a comprehensive list of options

Natural Stone Countertops Solid Surfaces---Man-made

Solid Surface Countertops---Man-made

Corian Solid Surface is distributed and sold by DuPont worldwide. The new Corian Select Series features 20 popular Corian colors at lower prices. Select retailers will be featuring up to 27 colors in this special collection. Corian was created for a lifetime of easy care. Because the solid beauty of Corian goes all the way through, Corian surfaces are completely renewable. You can remove minor cuts and scratches. There are three types of countertop finishes: matte/satin, semi-gloss and high-gloss*. Most countertops are finished with a matte/satin finish. All sinks have a matte/satin finish. Soapy water, ammonia based cleaners or commercially available solid surface cleaners will remove most dirt and residue from all types of finishes. With over 100 colors and varying hues some colors may appear to require more frequent cleaning to maintain a uniform finish. Darker colors tend to require more attention than lighter colors. Over time through care and use your countertop will acquire a patina, changing the appearance of the finish. You may restore the look of the original finish by following the Dupont Corian refurbishing guidelines. The Illumination Series includes five new icy tones that allow much more light to pass through than other Corian® colors. www.dupont.com/corian

Compac Marmol & Quartz-- This Spanish company offers its website in five languages. Compac is a major international company. Compac Marmol & Quartz is the leading company in Spain specializing in the manufacture and distribution of agglomerate marble products. They have provided material for projects in France, the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, and the Samsung buildings in Korea. They have plants in both Spain and Portugal. Compac Marmol & Quartz offers two products: Technological Marble and Technological Quartz, which are marketed under two brands: Marmol Compac (95% marble plus orthophalic polyester resin.) Marmol Compac Antibacterial is a special product for specific applications with properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria. Quartz Compac is an elegant product of exceptional hardness and resistance to impact is ideal both for areas that have to withstand intense foot traffic as well as for kitchen environments. Its minimal absorption, ease of cleaning and low maintenance make it a highly recommendable choice for bathroom counter tops or kitchen counters, as it is extremely resistant to abrasion, acids, oils. www.compacmq.com

SwanStone is a great product at a great price. I personally have a SwanStone sink in my kitchen. I got it at Home Depot and was really happy to find a cool colored, speckled finish, solid sink that was almost an exact match to my Formica and at a price I could afford. I have used that sink for about 3 yrs now, and it is totally carefree and never looks dirty !!! So in future home additions, I will see if I can afford SwanStone solid surface countertops. I am a happy customer. SwanStone makes what they call Everyday Plus Countertops & Sinks for the Kitchen. It’s the simplest way to put the beauty of Swanstone in your kitchen. Backed by their 10-year limited warranty, you get durability and seamless edges. Countertops are available with matching sinks in a variety of solid and granite colors. And at a price so affordable, you’ll forget all about laminate countertops. Swanstone offers Custom Countertops & Sinks for the Kitchen in an amazing combination of endless design options and real practicality. The solid surface of Swanstone gives you the flexibility to choose the size, shape, color and even the decorative edge treatment you’ll find in your dream kitchen, not to mention the durability to resist stains, scratches and extreme heat. www.theswancorp.com

Resin Countertops--resin countertops can look like translucent colorful jewels. They can even be lit from underneath to glow. Matte surface counter tops can be resurfaced...probably best in a bathroom or buffet. This is one cool website where you could spend hours looking and their past projects and creating your own design ideas. 100 percent is an exciting, design-driven material made entirely from post-consumer recycled HDPE. 3form Design Stories allow you to search the unique colors, patterns, textures and hues of 3form materials by thematic groupings. www.3-form.com

FireSlate--Fire slate is a synthetic product that is made from concrete, sand, water, fillers and a ton of pressure. It doesn't' have any veining like natural stone but it weighs less. It comes in custom edge shapes and several colors. This product is heat resistant but requires regular treatments of finish oil to resist stains. Consisting solely of Portland cement, silica sand, water, and fillers, formed under 400 tons of pressure, steam- and air-cured, Fireslate is a man-made material. Like slate and other natural stone, Fireslateis dark, rich, and has a solid depth of character. But unlike slate and other natural stone, it has no veins or strata to delaminate. It handles heat and weighs 40 percent less than natural stone. Even with its natural ingredients and stone-like beauty, Fireslate costs less than the plastic design materials on the market.www.fireslate.com

Formica Corporation now offers an exquisite yet durable, high-polish, stain-resistant natural quartz surface, Formica Stone Natural Quartz Surfacing is a new material for kitchen countertops. It not only offers the elegant look and durability of granite and it's virtually maintenance free. Nonporous so there's nowhere for bacteria to hide. More heat resistant than solid surfacing and high-pressure laminate. Formica Stone never requires sealing, buffing or polishing. Formica Stone contains 93% quartz - the 4th hardest mineral in nature. The high quartz content creates a superior surfacing material with remarkable flexural strength, preventing much of the chipping, cracking and breakage that can be common with other natural stone surfaces. Formica Stone Natural Quartz Surfacing lets you have the look of granite, with exceptional durability. It's not only scratch resistant, but more impact resistant too. Available in12 warm natural stone and rich jewel colors. Formica Stoneis consistent in color and texture from slab to slab. Plus, Formica Stone has a 10-year warranty. Formica Corporation is a huge global company with over 100 years experience designing and manufacturing surface materials.
Formica® Solid Surfacing is manufactured in two formats ready for fabrication. www.formica.com

Zodiaq Countertops quartz surfaces is a new category of surfacing material from DuPont made with natural quartz for interior use in homes and commercial buildings. Combining the strength and beauty of natural quartz with technology to create a palette of dramatic colors with consistency, tone and strength. DuPont Zodiaq quartz surfaces captures the radiance of quartz crystals with depth, clarity, radiance and strength. The quartz used in Zodiaq is combined with high-performance, stain-resistant polymers. The result is a durable, nonporous, chemical-resistant surface. Zodiaq is also heat- and scratch-resistant, but not heat- and scratch-proof. Use of a cutting board is recommended when using a knife. Zodiaq keeps its glossy smooth surface without polishing. Because it is nonporous, Zodiaq does not require sealants or waxes. DuPont backs Zodiaq® with a 10-year limited warranty. www.zodiaq.com

Dupont Simplicity Countertops--Simplicity® comes in a select range of over 20 popular colors, including neutral tones designed to coordinate with most cabinet finishes and flooring. Nonporous surface does not promote the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria.Simple scratch repairs can be done by you. Two edge treatments are available, Simplicity® offers both single and double sinks that resist mold and mildew as well as stains.A "set-on" backsplash of Simplicity® protects your kitchen from the usual spills and boilovers. Dupont Simplicity

Okite Italian Quartz Surfacing material is made in Italy. This Italian countertop material comes in bright primary colors as well as natural stone colors. Okite is a specially developed quartz based stone surface material. It is 93% quartz and 7% polyester resin. It comes in several thicknesses and slabs 120 inches x 55 inches. Okite is suitable for kitchen countertops or commercial uses like restaurant wall paneling. Okite is 5 times stronger than granite and comes in translucent colors as well as opaque colors Okite has both English and Italian language on it's website. www.okite.com

Caesarstone is a man made stone with all the properties of natural stone. Caesarstone is cool to the touch and has the same type shine of other natural stone materials. It is an engineered product. Caesarstone is 15 times harder than granite and 5 times stronger, enabling it to withstand just about anything. Caesarstone is also scratchproof and stain proof. Taurostone is the UK licensed importer and fabricator in UK. Caesarstone comes in three ranges Micro, Standard and the Stunning Nova range. Each one is available in 20 colors with additional color particles and mirror chips. www.caesarstoneus.com

WilsonArt Earthstone: the look and feel of natural stone countertops. Now there’s a surface that boasts the beauty of natural materials with the easy care and performance of solid surfacing. A surface that's easy to maintain, easy to repair. More and more, people are demanding the look and feel of natural stone countertop materials. That’s why Wilsonart® has created Earthstone™. This half-inch thick surface product boasts the beauty of natural materials with the easy care & performance of solid surfacing. It also features eight stone-like patterns.
WilsonArt Gibraltar Solid Surface from Wilsonart. From custom creations like drain boards and soap dishes to coordinating seamless Wilsonart sinks and bowls, the design options are infinite. Gibraltar is also renewable and repairable, heat- and stain-resistant, and it's backed by a 10-year, installed, transferable warranty. With a wide array of colors and stone-like patterns. Nothing sets off the look of your countertop like a well-chosen edge treatment. Edges made on Gibraltar Solid Surface countertops can be elegantly sculpted into a wide range of details. Earthstone can be shaped or molded into a variety of designs. It also coordinates seamlessly with Wilsonart sinks and bowls. It’s renewable, repairable, bacteria-resistant and easy to keep clean. See photos of kitchen designs on Wilson Art's site. www.wilsonart.com

Wilsonart Laminate puts the look of marble, tumbled stone and stained glass within reach for every consumer.
Three new laminate collections provide affordable luxury with an upscale look. The budget does not have to determine who has a dream kitchen and who doesn’t -- style is now the determining factor. Thanks to Wilsonart Laminate’s newest introductions -- three collections that rival time-worn stone (Roca), elegant marble (Fusion) and transparent crystals or stained glass (Oasis) -- a chic, upscale-looking kitchen can be a reality for every homeowner. While the cost of stone and marble countertops runs into thousands of dollars, laminate countertops made with pearlescent inks, high-tech digital photography and a variety of finishes to replicate natural materials only cost hundreds of dollars by comparison. Wilsonart collections: Fusion, Roca and Oasis. Wilsonart has several series of Decorative Metals clad kitchen surfaces. They are: METALAMINATES™, A-Look Mirror Quality, Anodized Aluminum, Artisan Group, and Galvalume Steel. You can achieve a very high tech kitchen look.

Rembrandt Countertops - Solid Surface for the Kitchen, Bath. Featuring Royal Stone Solid Surface Countertops. Royal Stone features a kitchen sink that identically matches the solid surface color. Royal Stone manufactures the sink at the same time as the countertop, insuring an exact color match. Royal Stone Color Matches to other solid surface brands are also available once a match is created, matching sinks, shower pans, etc can also be provided with no minimum quantity requirements. Rembtandt Countertops is located in Phoenix, AZ. If you live in the U.S. west, I'd definately check out this company. www.rembrandtcountertops.com

Meganite--Luxury for less, produced overseas, in a 100% Acrylic countertop material produced in 64 different colors of solid, mist, or granite and is for both residential and commercial applications including; kitchens, bathroom surrounds, vanities, hotels, theaters, office buildings, shopping centers, hospitals, etc. Meganite acrylic solid surface can be bent under heart which will offer you infinite design options. Meganite sink scan be coordinated seamlessly with their counter tops. There is a good page of maintenance and care info for acrylic countertops on their site. They offer all sorts of colors and options, they just do not have good photos on their website. www.meganite.com

LG HI-MACS Acrylic Solid Surface Engineered solid surface material. Its non-porous surface is easy to clean and is completely renewable. And because LG HI-MACS is thermoformable, it can be molded or shaped to fit any design you can imagine with a 15-year fully transferable warranty. LG HI-MACS solid surface was introduced in 1995. Since then, LG HI-MACS has been installed in homes and businesses all around the world. LG HI-MACS has been a solid surface of choice in Europe and Asia for 7 years, available in North America since 1997. Founded in 1947, LG Group is a global company with regional headquarters around the world and a home office in Seoul, Korea. www.lghi-macs.com

Volcanics Collection--attains the performance of all LG HI-MACS products, backed
by the only 15 year warranty in the industry. The Volcanics collection has incredible colors with depth and semi-transparent chunks that seem to glow. Applications include any interior, horizontal, or vertical surface where the properties of solid surface enhance form and function. Residential applications include kitchen countertops, tub surrounds, vanity tops , wet bars, built-in desks, entertainment centers. The LG HI-MACS Volcanics collection has large translucent chips that intensify the clarity and elegance and unique and luxurious colors. www.lgvolcanics.com

Staron 100% acrylic solid surface countertops can enhance the appearance of any
kitchen or bathroom. Available in more than 50 colors and a variety of edge details and
inlay options, Staron is a division of the Samsung Co. , you know the name in electronics. Headquartered in Seoul, Korea, Samsung is a world-class leader in technology.
Established in 1938, Samsung employs approximately 220,000 people worldwide and has sales revenues of $130 billion. Samsung has five business areas: electronics, machinery, chemicals, finance, and trading and services. Staron is a part of Samsung’s chemical division and is manufactured by Samsung’s parent company, Cheil Industries. Despite Staron’s elegance, it’s a surface that’s practical and easy to maintain. Staron is composed of acrylic resin and aluminum tri-hydrate. Pigments and stabilizers are also added. If the surface is ever scratched, it’s easily repaired with a mild abrasive cleanser or a light-
duty kitchen scrubbing pad. Staron is also nonporous with smooth, impenetrable seams,
so germs and dirt have nowhere to accumulate. Sinks and countertops are available in Staron product. www.getstaron.com

Arpa USA --Strata-Kore is a laminate with a solid phenolic core made of alternate color layers. The designer can chose from 100's of colors for the top surface. www.arpausa.com

Mystera is a nonporous surface that is easy to clean, renewable, and mold and bacteria resistant. Mystera can be purchased through an extensive networks of distributors and kitchen and bath showrooms across the country. Mystera Terrascape has brilliant and deep colors that harmonize perfectly in a wide range of design applications. The colors of these surfaces go all the way through each piece. The Gallery Collection is the first solid surface material with the look of natural granite. www.mysterasolidsurface.com

Hanex countertop material and sink lavatory bowls are specially manufactured with durability for the purpose of having resistance to stain, acid and bacteria. Hanex is not affected by general household detergents and chemical products. Hanex is available in single-tone, fine-grain, coarse-grain, pearl-grain, transparent-grain, ripple-tone, wood-tone and huge-grain patterns in 85 colors. Made in Korea. This porduct can be used for all sorts of residential and commercial applications such as countertops, window sills, wall coverings, etc www.hanex-i.com

Dovaé solid surface is a unique blend of resins and mineral fillers creating a non-porous material that looks like stone but cuts like wood. The grain pattern goes completely through providing a surface that is always renewable. Cuts and scratches are easily removed with light sanding. Dovaé solid surface is extremely durable and stain-resistant, ideal for kitchen countertops, bath vanities, tub and shower surrounds, restaurant interiors, hospital areas, furniture and more. The non-porous surface will not support the growth of bacteria like natural products, such as granite or marble. It is easy to clean and is not stained by ink, coffee, or other similar. Dovaé is backed by a 10-year warranty. Made by Chemcore Industries. www.dovae.com

Glass Counter Tops--You might not have thought of thick glass for counter tops but merchants have been using it for years in retail. You can get glass countertops with various surface textures and edge treatments. A textured bottom surface helps hide fingerprints and scratches. Glass cones in a lot of colors and can be made in unusual shapes. www.thinkglass.com (very cool but ...noisy website)

Concrete Countertops--Concrete can be very tough and comes in lots of colors. It can be stamped, stained, or can include embedded trinkets but it is not good for hot pots or cutting on. A concrete countertop requires regular sealing. Look in your phone book for a local concrete counter top craftsman or go to www.sonomastone.com

Dupont has a nice comparison page of all their solid surface countertop materials.

Natural Stone Countertops

There are several different types of natural stone available for solid surface countertops, walls like shower walls, or flooring.

Granite is an a type of real rock called igneous rock, which means it was once molten and it formed as it cooled deep within the earth. Different minerals within granite typically appear as small specks and flecks throughout the stone, creating the salt and pepper look. Other types of granite may have veining similar to marble. Granite is extremely hard and durable, and is practically scratchproof. It can be highly polished and shiny or finished in a variety of other ways. Granite countertops are easily cleaned because of its low porosity. Granite is available in a wide range of colors.

Quartz--Unlike granite, you never have to seal or polish quartz countertops.

Soapstone--Soapstone countertops in your kitchen are a natural, non-porous material, which means it won't stain and isn't affected by chemicals, acids, temperatures, etc but is is darkened by mineral oil. For this reason, some people pre-treat soapstone with mineral oil.

Pyrolave is enameled lava rock. This is a natural rock that has had an additional heat treatment finish applied. Read more below.

Marble--an age old counter top material. Some people say it stains too easily or is too soft for a good conter topmaterial, but others dissagree.

• Tips on Caring for Granite or Stone Countertops:
  *Wipe up wet spills immediately, especially acidic liquids like citrus juice, alcohol or soft drinks.
  *Use recommended cleaning products that are pH neutral. Never wipe your table or countertop with an acidic cleanser (like vinegar or lemon) or harsh chemical/abrasive cleansers.
  Also, use soft cloths to wipe the surface instead of an scratchy or abrasive pads like Scotch-brite or steel wool that might scratch it.
  *Remember that many types of natural stone can be damaged if a hot dish is placed directly on it. Use trivets and placemats under dishes or hot pots. Granite is pretty much heat proof.
  *Some natural stone countertops need or benefit from a protective sealant. Your countertop supplier or installer will apply the correct sealant based on the type of stone you choose what you will be using it for.
• 
• Granite Shield forms a stain-proof barrier on and in the surface, smoothing the uneven nooks and crevices of your countertops. This barrier stops water and stains from entering your stone. Granite Shield will last the lifetime of your countertop. The Granite Shield™ process utilizes the Catalyzing Polymer Carbon Crystal coating system invented by Granite Shield chemists. They then carbonize the surface pores with Crystasheen™ leaving a harder, smoother, glossier surface inside and on top of your natural stone. The Granite Shield process is under warranty for the lifetime of the coated surface against any adverse change to the coated surface, including appearance, visual clarity, and staining of the coated surface. If any such adverse change occurs after the Granite Shield process has been applied, Granite Shield will repair and recoat the applicable surface at Granite Shield's expense. Flooring is under warranty for 5 years. *Etching of marble/travertine/limestone due to acidic liquids is not under warranty. Warranty may be transferred within one year after the Granite Shield application. Granite Shield is a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association. If you have granite countertops or granite flooring you want sealed, you will need to contact them for an installer in your area or more info. www.graniteshield.net

Do It Yourself Granite Countertops - is a supplier of discount wholesale double-bullnosed granite countertops,
finished backsplash and tiles in a new modular system. They are a direct importer and supplier so that of various granite stone. They say that almost any kitchen or bath countertop can be constructed just like the pros without any expensive fabrication. Do it Yourself Granite has developed a number of tools for their customers like the Seamstone kit and the kwik-korner jig that make the job of installing easier and better. They will do undermount sink holes for you and reinforce them with steel. Also they do custom bullnosing for smaller islands and special corners,
You will need is an a circular saw and grinder and our product. You could install double-bullnosed 3/4" slab granite countertops in your kitchen or bath for less than half of the price than even the warehouses charge according to their website. Because they sell mostly to novices and homeowners, Do It Yourself gives you the personal advice and service you will need. Looks heavy and tricky to me--but hey--esp. for a small job, I think I'd give them a try. They were featured on a DIY Network show recently--they have links to the DIY Network web pages. Their website loads slowly--BTW.
www.doityourselfgranite.com

CAMBRIA - Natural stone quartz countertops
Cambria is a natural stone quartz surface that can be used for kitchen countertops, bathroom shower surrounds, vanities and more. Cambria is both elegant, practical. Cambria is virtually non-absorbent, greatly reducing the potential for bacterial growth. Unlike granite, you never have to seal or polish Cambria and it comes with a 10-year limited warranty. It is completely non-porous and will not absorb food and liquids like granite can. And best of all, it is maintenance-free. Cambria introduces the Quarry Collection with the look and feel of granite and the high performance of quartz. Cambria is the only producer of quartz solid surfaces in the USA. Generally, Cambria prices are comparable to granite and other high-end countertop options. www.cambriausa.com

Silestone natural quartz stone countertops-- WOW!!! The natural quartz in Silestone delivers a distinctive depth, brilliant clarity, glimmering radiance and cool, solid feel unique to natural stones. Because it is non-porous, Silestone’s polished surface doesn’t need to be sealed. Granite, marble and limestone, on the other hand, must be sealed on installation and resealed regularly to prevent staining. Silestone offers benefits that outperform other surfaces, such as scratch and scorch resistance that can't be matched by plastic or solid surfaces, and resistance to stains that can't be matched by even sealed granite or marble. Silestone can be used in virtually any indoor surfacing application, including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, tub and shower surrounds, backsplashes, floors, walls, wet bars, tabletops, desktops, fireplace surrounds, and more. SileStone has widespread availability, and with over 48 colors available in the U.S., and virtually unlimited edge designs to choose from. In North America, Silestone is available through approximately 3,500 retailers including all EXPO Design Center stores, Home Depot locations, e-counters.com, as well as a variety of kitchen and bath retailers, cabinet shops, tile/flooring outlets, designers’ showrooms, architectural firms, builders. Only three other natural minerals — diamond, sapphire and topaz – are harder than quartz, making Silestone naturally scratch-resistant. Quartz is a seven in strength on Mohs Hardness Scale (diamond is a 10). Silestone requires very little maintenance. Simply wipe your Silestone surface with soap and warm water on a regular basis to maintain its beauty and shine. www.silestone.com or www.silestoneusa.com
You can actually order these incredible Silestone countertops online !! www.e-counters.com

Soapstone is actually a talc quarried product such as granite or slate. Soapstone is from Vermont or Brazil and the cost is comparable to granite or slate. Soapstone countertops in your kitchen are a natural, non-porous material, which means it won't stain and isn't affected by chemicals, acids, temperatures, etc. You can use mineral oil to darken soapstone if you wish. Sinks and countertops are cut to size and fabricated at a mill for custom kitchens. Since 1856 Vermont Soapstone has been the nations leading fabricator of soapstone sinks, countertops and fireplaces. They stand by their warranty of a lifetime guarantee. Soapstone is the stone-of-choice for luxury kitchen and bathroom countertops. It is a metamorphic stone with a soft, warm feel. Soapstone is resistant to chemicals, acid, water, and heat. No foods will stain it. You may take hot pots off the stove and sit them right on the stone without burning it. Light sanding will remove most scratches. Soapstone has a blue, green, or gray cast when mined. If it is treated with mineral oil the color deepens to its more typical rich, veined, charcoal gray.

Catherine Lagot, Artisans of France-- imports French Enameled Lavastone for kitchen countertops and tabletop uses. The natural stone is extracted from ancient volcanic lava flows overlooking villages in France. The slabs of stone are then covered with enamel and fired. Available in various colors, the surface is fireproof and perfect for food preparation and cooking both indoors and outdoors. www.catherinelagot.com

Wood Countertops--hardwood kitchen counter tops can be more durable than most people think. It resists water, heat, and stains when sealed with oil. Scratches or stains can be sanded away and the whole thing re-oiled. www.craft-art.com

Pyrolave is enameled lava. It is hardened at 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit and has a natural hard enameled finish. Pyrolave was created in 1987and is now located in Castelsarras in (France). The most modern techniques are used both in the computer-aided drawing, design and manufacturing systems, the self-adapting firing control and the décor creation and reproduction methods. Pyrolave only manufactures to order so very unique countertops and kitchen surfaces can be achieved. Constructed from natural lava rock from the volcanic flows from Volvic in France and then hand enameled, Pyrolave creates the ultimate luxurious worktop surface. Each lavastone slab is unique since the pores of the lava gently change the pigmentation of each piece. Meanwhile delicate crazings, which enhance with use, 'lace' the surface giving Pyrolave an appearance that is something like the look of fine ceramic. It can be used both indoors and outdoors for applications such as countertops, floors, walls, and decorative motifs. Because of its inherent hardness reinforced by the firing process, the surface is one of the most resistant to shock and scratching. It is also unaffected by thermic shocks, frost or direct contact with flame and is impermeable to water, greases, alcohol and cleaning products. The surface also requires zero maintenance with cleaning completed with a wet sponge or light detergent. Pyrolave products are distributed in several countries, the main ones being: Germany, Switzerland, Italy, the United Kingdom, Belgium, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, etc. An unlimited choice of colors with more than 5000 registered ! Pyrolave, is available in the UK exclusively from Taurostone. http://www.taurostone.com/html/pyrolave.asp

Granite emitting Radiation--

New information about possible hazards of granite and stone countertops. Recent article in NYT told of countertops of granite emmiting unacceptable levels of radiation. "Allegations that granite countertops may emit dangerous levels of radon and radiation have been raised periodically over the past decade, mostly by makers and distributors of competing countertop materials. The Marble Institute of America has said such claims are “ludicrous” because although granite is known to contain uranium and other radioactive materials like thorium and potassium, the amounts in countertops are not enough to pose a health threat.

Health physicists and radiation experts agree that most granite countertops emit radiation and radon at extremely low levels. They say these emissions are insignificant compared with so-called background radiation that is constantly raining down from outer space or seeping up from the earth’s crust, not to mention emanating from manmade sources like X-rays, luminous watches and smoke detectors.

But with increasing regularity in recent months, the Environmental Protection Agency has been receiving calls from radon inspectors as well as from concerned homeowners about granite countertops with radiation measurements several times above background levels. “We’ve been hearing from people all over the country concerned about high readings,” said Lou Witt, a program analyst with the agency’s Indoor Environments Division.

The E.P.A. recommends taking action if radon gas levels in the home exceeds 4 picocuries per liter of air (a measure of radioactive emission); about the same risk for cancer as smoking a half a pack of cigarettes per day."

Something to consider when chosing a counter top material...

Combo--Natural and Resin Solid Countertop Materials

Granite Transformations--this is a company with franchised offices all over the USA. The first Granite Transformations franchise opened in 1996 in Perth, Australia. The product line of Rocksolid Granit™, Cristallino™ and Mosaics is manufactured from stone and granite slabs that are approximately 95% natural granite stone with specially formulated polymer. They measure your existing counter tops and make thin, perfect-fit countertop coverings of granite to attach over old countertop surface. People in forums that have used them all seem pleased, altho their prices are not especially inexpensive. Color choices are somewhat limited, IMHO. Some people seem to think they could get real solid thick granite counters for the same or just a bit more, but then not everyone wants to rip out what they have underneath. That is a bigger job requiring more down-time. Granite Transformations can come do your whole job in one day ! www.granitetransformations.com

Technistone is a world leader in quartz surface innovations with an international reputation for excellence and unparalleled quality.
Technistone's colors are considered by many as the most beautiful in the industry. This isn’t by chance. The 20 colors are the result of over 1000 colors developed and test marketed by Technistone. Technistone is made using a combination of 93 % Quartz, Quartz Silica, Granite or Recycled Mirror*, combined with 7 % resin, colors and binders. Unlike Granite, Technistone is much stronger having a flexural strength of over 4 times that of natural stone. Technistone is 99.9% solid; zero porosity means no place for dangerous bacteria or microorganisms such as salmonella to grow and accumulate. Oil, sodas, wine, water and common household chemicals have no effect on Technistone. Technistone is literally a “Super-natural stone”. Unlike plastic based Solid Surface materials like Corian, Technistone is highly scratch and heat resistant. Technistone comes standard with an easy to maintain high gloss finish not possible with solid surface. www.technistone.com

LG Viatera--LG Viatera is composed of quartz blended with polymer resins and colorfast pigments. The manufacturing process takes place under intense heat and pressure. LG Viatera is 93% natural quartz providing an extremely durable surface. Launched in 2004, the LG Viatera brand is trying to make its name in the surfacing industry. LG Viatera does not need topical sealing, allowing for very little maintenance. LG Viatera appeals to those who prefer the elegant look of stone, but desire a product that is easy to maintain and like all LG countertop surfacing products, is backed by a 15 year warranty. Currently available in 12 countertop colors. www.lgviatera.com

HanStone--Composed of natural quartz, HanStone from the Hanwha L&C Corporation is the perfect surfacing material for today’s design-savvy consumers who demand effectiveness and low maintenance combined with an authentically natural and elegant stone look. HanStone has already been successfully launched in Asia and Europe under the brand name Khanstone. HanStone will offer this engineered stone technology in more than fifteen colors to the U.S. market in starting in 2005. This is a non-porous, harder and stronger alternative to granite that will be available in the preferred 55” wide slab. HanStone is backed by a 10 year limited warranty. Hanwha L&C Corporation’s parent company, Hanwha Group is an international conglomerate based in Korea. The U.S.A. offices are in California. www.hanex-i.com

Solid Surface International Expo--The International Expo of Kitchen Counters----March 16-18 2006Las Vegas, Nevada www.SolidSurfaceExpo.com

Suppliers:

CHINA NEWSTAR STONE COMPANY China Exporter and manufacturer of various granite, marble, slate, sandstone ,quartzite, pebble, countertops, vanity, worktops, stone sinks & bowls, tub surround, window sills ,tiles, slabs, fireplace etc and accessory stainless steel sinks, ceramic sinks, faucets, and cabinets www.stone-export.com

A Cost Saving Alternative:

Kuehn Bevel -- a manufacturer of quality decorative edge molding products -- including laminate bevel edge, solid surface edges and hardwood accent edges for laminate countertops. Decorative edges can be used to give a custom look and be creative in your designs. Countertops, table and door edges, chair rails, window sills, and baseboard can all be color coordinated. Laminate is manufactured in thousands of colors and KUEHN Bevel allows you to personalize your edges by mixing and matching any color combination from any manufacturer. Decorative bevel edges allow you to mix and match any brand laminate in any color to create a distinctive custom look of solid surface without a custom solid surface price. www.kuehnbevel.com

Kitchen Accessories, Faucets, Hardware

Taken from http://www.scrapbookscrapbook.com/DAC-ART/kitchen-countertops.html